The total solar eclipse is less than a week away. By this time, people have picked out their camping spots and are quickly making sure they have enough solar glasses to go around. Great Plains Communications is excited that we in Nebraska will have a prime view, but also want to caution viewers about some solar eclipse safety reminders.
While it is common sense not to stare at the sun on a normal day, this is the same advice given for a partially eclipsed sun. However, with the special protection of the solar filters in something like solar glasses or solar binoculars, you and your loved ones can safely view the sun. Be sure to keep your glasses on throughout the entire eclipse transition, as even just a sliver of the sun can damage vision to a naked eye.
Want to make sure your glasses meet NASA’s safety criteria? Below we have listed the checklist provided on NASA’s website.
- Have certified information with a designated ISO 12312-2 international standard
- Have the manufacturer’s name and address printed somewhere on the product
- Should NOT be used if they are older than three years, or have scratched or wrinkled lenses
- Do NOT use homemade filters
- Ordinary sunglasses – even very dark ones – should NOT be used as a replacement for eclipse viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers
While this is a very exciting event, we hope everyone stays safe and enjoys this rare and beautiful natural phenomenon.